CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The application claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/123,582, filed on December 10, 2020, and entitled Warming Cushions, Blankets and Clothing and Related Methods, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/138,045, filed on December January 15, 2021, and entitled Warming Cushions, Blankets and Clothing and Related Methods, the entire contents of both of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to warming cushions (e.g., mattresses) blankets and clothing that utilize infrared radiation that is emitted by a user’s body to warm the user. The present disclosure also relates to methods of manufacturing such warming constructs and methods of using such constructs.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Many factors affect the comfort of a person. One factor is the temperature of the environment about the user - i.e., whether a person feels too hot or too cold.

[0004] Some individuals become cold while sleeping. For example, the ambient temperature of a room/ space in which a user sleeps may decrease over time, such as during the night. Even further, some part(s) of a person may become cold while the person is laying down. For example, many people’s feet and/or legs become cold while sleeping, such as in a prone or supine position. As another example, some climates are cold (relative to the temperatures of humans) such that the ambient temperature of a space or environment within which a user is present is colder than what is comfortable for the user. [0005] Further, heat or warmth can be physiologically beneficial to people. For example, heat or warmth is typically recommended to ease muscle (or other soft tissues) and/or joint pain and/or injury.

[0006] In such situations, people often utilize clothing and/or blankets configured to warm the user by thermally insulating the user. Such “passive” clothing and blankets are configured to resist the conductive and/or convective flow of heat therethrough, so that the flow of heat emitted by the user’s body and away therefrom via conduction and/or convention, respectively, is reduced. The insulative clothing and blankets reduce heat transfer (i.e., the transfer of thermal energy between objects of differing temperature) between the user and their environment. As is known, heat flow is an inevitable consequence of contact between objects of different temperature. Thermal insulation provides a region of insulation in which thermal conduction and/or convention is reduced rather than absorbed by the lower-temperature body. The insulating capability of a material is measured as the inverse of thermal conductivity (k). Low thermal conductivity is thus equivalent to high insulating capability (Resistance value).

[0007] A relatively small number of clothing and blankets actively heat a user. Such “active” clothing and blankets generate their own heat and conduct, convect and/or radiate heat to the user. For example, electric heating blankets (and clothing) include electrically resistive heating elements incorporated therein that, when electrically coupled to an electric source (i.e., a voltage or current is drawn thereacross), the elements increase in temperature to relatively high temperatures (above the temperature of the user). The “active” clothing and blankets also have a thermal insulative quality such that they reduce the loss of heat away from the user. The “active” clothing and blankets thereby generate heat and pass it to the user to warm the user, and help keep the heat around/at the user in order to keep the user warm. [0008] Existing technologies for “passively” heating a user may be insufficiently warm for some users, and existing technologies for “actively” heating a user can be cumbersome due to the need for such devices to be charged by an external energy source. Improvements to existing technology used to keep a user warm are needed. In particular, improvements to existing cushions/bedding products (mattresses, mattress toppers, pillows, etc.), blankets and clothing, for example, for keeping a user warm and/or warming a user are needed.

[0009] While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicants in no way disclaim these technical aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

[0010] In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was, at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

SUMMARY

[0011] To address deficiencies in existing technologies, the cushions/bedding products (mattresses, mattress toppers, pillows, etc.), blankets and clothing, for example, disclosed herein provide an effective mechanism for keeping a user warm and/or warming a user utilizing heat energy that is emitted by the user’s body, as opposed to an external source. [0012] Briefly, the present inventions satisfy the need for improved warming devices, such as cushions and bedding products (mattresses, mattress cartridges, mattress toppers, mattress covers, mattress protectors, mattress pads, mattress components, mattress accessories, pillows and the like), blankets, clothing and like, for example, that accumulate heat adjacent to the user to warm the user. The present warming devices address one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the art discussed above. However, it is contemplated that the warming devices (and portions or zones thereof) according to the present disclosure may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technical areas. Therefore, the disclosed warming devices and claimed inventions should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed herein.

[0013] Certain embodiments of the presently-disclosed warming devices, and methods for making and using the warming devices and components thereof, have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the warming devices and methods as defined by the claims that follow, their more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section of this specification entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the features of the various embodiments disclosed herein provide a number of advantages over the current state of the art.

[0014] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a warming device that includes a plurality of layers that are configured to provide heat to a user. The plurality of layers include an infrared radiation absorption layer configured to absorb at least 50% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm and configured to be positioned proximate to the user when the plurality of layers overlie at least a portion of the user. The plurality of layers also include at least two additional layers, wherein the two additional layers include an infrared radiation reflection layer that includes a reflectivity of at least 0.5 to incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm and a thermal insulation layer that includes a clo value of at least 0.5 clo. The infrared radiation reflection layer is configured to reflect the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm in a direction that extends toward the infrared radiation absorption layer and the user. [0015] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured to absorb at least 60% of the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured to absorb at least 70% of the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured to absorb at least 80% of the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with a reflectivity of at least 0.6 to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with a reflectivity of at least 0.7 to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with a reflectivity of at least 0.8 to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with a reflectivity of at least 0.9 to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured to reflect the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm in a direction that is incident with the infrared radiation absorption layer. In some embodiments, the user emits the infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured with a thermal emissivity greater than 0.5. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured with a thermal emissivity greater than 0.7. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured with a thermal emissivity less than 0.5. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is configured with a thermal emissivity less than 0.7. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is flexible. [0017] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured to reflect incident infrared radiation that passes though the infrared radiation absorption layer and is emitted by the infrared radiation absorption layer. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer directly overlies the infrared radiation reflection layer.

[0018] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with an emissivity to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of less than 0.5. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with an emissivity to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of less than 0.4. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with an emissivity to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of less than 0.3. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with an emissivity to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of less than 0.2. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is configured with an emissivity to the incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of less than 0.1.

[0019] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer comprises an infrared radiation reflection face formed via a metal material. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer is flexible. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer comprises an array of a plurality of infrared reflector discs coupled to flexible support material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the flexible support material comprises a polymer or fabric. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are embedded in the flexible support material. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are coupled to a side of the flexible support material. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are separate and distinct discs that are coupled together. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are integral with each other. [0021] In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are portions of a reflector member. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs are concave with respect to top reflective sides thereof that faces toward the infrared radiation absorption layer. In some embodiments, the top reflective sides of the infrared reflector discs are arcuately concave. In some embodiments, the top reflective sides of the infrared reflector discs are parabolic shaped.

[0022] In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer directly underlies the infrared radiation reflection layer. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer is flexible. [0023] In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer is configured to regulate or otherwise resist thermal flow via conduction and convention therethrough. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer comprises a clo value of at least 0.5 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 1 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 1.5 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 2 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 2.5 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 3 clo. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer has a clo value of at least 4 clo.

[0024] In some embodiments, the warming device further comprises at least one thermoelectric generator (TEG) layer configured to generate an electrical current when a temperature gradient across its thickness is present. In some embodiments, the TEG layer underlies the infrared radiation absorption layer. In some embodiments, the TEG layer is positioned between the user and the infrared radiation absorption layer. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer is positioned between the user and the TEG layer. In some embodiments, the TEG layer comprises the thermal insulation layer. [0025] In some embodiments, the TEG layer comprises a flexible solid-state device that converts heat flux directly into electrical energy via Seebeck effect. In some embodiments, the TEG layer comprises at least one thermocouple comprising at least one p-type semiconductor and at least one n-type semiconductor, the semiconductors connected electrically in series by an electrical line or strip. In some embodiments, the TEG layer is electrically coupled to a resistive load such that an electrical current is formed across the resistive load. In some embodiments, the resistive load comprises an electrical energy storage element such that the TEG acts to charge the electrical energy storage element. In some embodiments, the electrical energy storage element comprises an electrical battery. In some embodiments, the electrical battery is rechargeable and is initially precharged prior to the user using the warming device. In some embodiments, the electrical energy storage element comprises a supercapacitor. In some embodiments, the supercapacitor is configured as a flexible layer.

[0026] In some embodiments, the warming device further comprises an electric heating layer comprising electric heating elements or wires, and wherein the electric heating elements or wires are electrically coupled to the electrical energy storage element. In some embodiments, the warming device further comprises an electric heating layer comprising electric heating elements or wires, and wherein the resistive load comprises the electric heating elements or wires. In some embodiments, the electric heating layer is positioned between the TEG layer and the user. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers form a cushion configured to support a user positioned thereon.

[0027] In some embodiments, the plurality of layers form at least a portion of a cushion, mattress, mattress insert, mattress covering, mattress topper, or body-support pad. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers form at least a portion of a blanket, cloth, towel, fabric, or textile. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers form at least a portion of a piece of clothing, garment, or apparel.

[0028] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing a warming device comprising forming, assembling, or otherwise obtaining the plurality of layers are described herein above.

[0029] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of warming a user comprising providing a warming device to the user, the warming device comprising a warming device as described herein above.

[0030] These and other features and advantages of the disclosure and inventions will become apparent from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the invention taken in conjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The subject matter, which is regarded as the invention(s), is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates an elevational perspective view of a portion of an exemplary warming device according to the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a plurality of layers of the warming device of FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of an exemplary infrared reflective layer with infrared reflector discs of the warming device of FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 4 illustrates an elevated cross-sectional view of the exemplary infrared reflective layer of FIG. 3 according to the present disclosure; [0036] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of another exemplary infrared reflective layer with infrared reflector discs of a warming device according to the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a plurality of layers of another warming device according to the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 7 illustrates an elevated exploded view of a plurality of layers of another warming device according to the present disclosure; and

[0039] FIG. 8 illustrates an elevated exploded view of a plurality of layers of an active warming device according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] Aspects of the present disclosure and certain features, advantages, and details thereof, are explained more fully below with reference to the non-limiting embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Descriptions of well-known materials, fabrication tools, processing techniques, etc., are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the details of the inventions. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific example(s), while indicating embodiments of inventions of the present disclosure, are given by way of illustration only, and are not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions and/or arrangements within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concepts will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0041] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the disclosure, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about” or “substantially,” is not limited to the precise value specified. For example, these terms can refer to less than or equal to 5% and greater than or equal to -5%, such as less than or equal to 2% and greater than or equal to -2%, such as less than or equal to

1% and greater than or equal to -1%, such as less than or equal to 0.5% and greater than or equal to -0.5%, such as less than or equal to 0.2% and greater than or equal to -0.2%, such as less than or equal to 0.1% and greater than or equal to -0.1%, such as less than or equal to 0.05% and greater than or equal to -0.05%. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.

[0042] The term “user” is used herein to refer to a mammal (e.g., human or animal, such as a pet or livestock) that utilizes the warming devices disclosed herein to either maintain or increase (i.e., warm) their temperature or the temperature that they experience (e.g., of the environment between the user and the warming device). A user “utilizes” a warming device by positioning theirself relative to the warming device, or positioning the warming device relative to theirself (potentially via a third party) such that the warming device overlies or is otherwise in contact with a portion of the user. The term “overlies” and the like are used herein to describe the relative position of a warming device that extends across or is otherwise in contact with a portion of the user. It is noted that the warming device may be positioned under, over, along a side of, or on top of a user such that it “overlies”, and is therefore in contact with, at least a portion of the user.

[0043] At least a portion of a warming device according to the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 1-4 and referenced by reference numeral 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the warming device 10 may form a blanket, cloth, fabric, towel, textile, sheet or like relatively thin and flexible or malleable device. In other embodiments, the warming device 10 may form a bedding product (or a portion thereof), such as a mattress, mattress cartridge, mattress system, mattress topper, mattress covering, mattress cover, mattress protector, mattress pad or liner, mattress component, mattress accessory, pillow and the like. In some other similar embodiments, the warming device 10 may form a body-support pad or mat (or a portion thereof). In some other embodiments, the warming device 10 may form at least a portion of a clothing item, garment, apparel, or another item that is worm or carried by a user, such as shirts, shorts/pants, socks, underwear, headwear, shoes, backpacks, gloves and any other apparel or clothing item. In some embodiments, the warming device 10 may form at least a portion of a non-bedding body support cushion, such as a furniture cushion (e.g. pillow), automobile/plane/boat seat, child carrier, neck support, leg spacer, pet accessory (e.g., pet bed, pet carrier insert and other pet apparel), exercise equipment cushion or any other cushion configured to support a portion of a user.

[0044] The warming device 10 is configured to warm a user during use by efficiently insulating the user and returning the energy emitted by the user (i.e. the user’s body) back to the user (as heat). The warming device 10 is configured to utilize, and/or provide to the user, sensible heat and/or latent heat.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the warming device 10 is formed of a plurality of layers 16. The plurality of layers 16 overly/underlie each other in a depth direction that extends away/toward a user. The plurality of layers 16 of the warming device 10 may be immediately consecutive and/or contiguous, or may include an additional layer or space positioned therebetween (not shown). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of layers 16 are immediately consecutive and/or contiguous.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of layers 16 of the warming device 10 defines a top or underside surface 12 of the warming device 10 (formed by an innermost layer) that is positioned proximate (e.g., contacting or adjacent) to a user during use of the warming device 10, and a bottom or topside 14 formed (by an outermost layer) that is distal to the user (i.e., spaced or positioned further from the user than the top or underside surface 12) during use of the warming device 10. In some embodiments, the top or underside surface 12 of the warming device 10 may be formed by an innermost layer 20 of the plurality of layers 16 and/or the bottom or topside 14 of the warming device 10 may be formed by an outermost layer 24 of the plurality of layers 16. However, in some other embodiments the warming device 10 may include at least one additional layer that overlies or underlies the plurality of layers 16 such that the top or underside surface 12 of the warming device 10 is not formed by the innermost layer 20 of the plurality of layers 16 and/or the bottom or topside 14 of the warming device 10 is not formed by the outermost layer 24 of the plurality of layers 16. [0047] The innermost layer 20 of the plurality of layers 16 of the warming device 10 may be a thermal radiation or infrared radiation absorption layer (or radiant absorption layer) 20, and the plurality of layers 16 may further comprise at least two additional layers such as, for example, additional layers 22, 24 (the outermost layer 24). In some embodiments the infrared radiation absorption layer (or radiant absorption layer) 20 may underlie (directly or indirectly) the at least two additional layers or may be configured to be more proximate to the user than the at least two additional layers. The at least two additional layers include the additional layer 22, which may be, for example, a thermal radiation or infrared radiation reflective layer (or radiant reflective layer), and the additional layer 24 (i.e., the outermost layer 24), which may be, for example, a thermal insulation layer. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflection layer may overlie (directly or indirectly) the infrared radiation absorption layer and underlie (directly or indirectly) the thermal insulation layer such that the infrared radiation reflection layer is positioned between the infrared radiation absorption layer and the thermal insulation layer. In other embodiments, the thermal insulation layer may overlie (directly or indirectly) the infrared radiation absorption layer and underlie (directly or indirectly) the infrared radiation reflection layer such that the thermal insulation layer is positioned between the infrared radiation absorption layer and the infrared radiation reflection layer.

[0048] The infrared radiation absorption layer (or radiant absorption layer) 20 is configured to absorb radiant energy emitted by a user. As is known in the art, most of the radiation emitted by a human body is in the infrared region (e.g., predominantly at about 3-50 pm, with an output peak reported to be at about 6-18 pm). The human body typically emits the majority of its radiant energy in the mid-wavelength infrared (e.g., about 3-8 pm), long wavelength infrared (about 8-15 pm) and far infrared subdivisions (about 15-1000 pm) of the infrared radiation wavelength spectrum.

[0049] The infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is thereby configured to absorb infrared radiation within the range of about 6-18 pm. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is configured (e.g., formed of a particular material(s), thickness, color, etc.) such that it absorbs at least 50% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 55% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 60% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 65% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 70% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 75% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 80% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 85% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 90% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm, and more preferably at least 95% of incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm.

[0050] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is configured with a relatively high thermal emissivity, such as an emissivity greater than 0.5, and more preferably greater than 0.6, and more preferably greater than 0.7, and more preferably greater than 0.8, and more preferably greater than 0.9. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is configured with a relatively low thermal emissivity so that it loses very little heat, such as a thermal emissivity less than 0.5, and more preferably less than 0.4, and more preferably less than 0.3, and more preferably less than 0.2, and more preferably less than 0.1.

[0051] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 may be configured to be relatively breathable such that air and/or moisture is able to flow therethrough at a rate that keeps the user comfortable. For example, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 may be substantially less insulative with respect to convection than infrared radiation.

[0052] The infrared radiation reflective layer is configured to reflect infrared radiation that is not absorbed by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 and reflect infrared radiation that is emitted by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20. For example, the infrared radiation reflective layer may be configured with a reflectivity (or reflectance) to incident infrared radiation within the range of 6-18 pm of at least 0.5 (i.e., 50%), and more preferably at least 0.55, and more preferably at least 0.6, and more preferably at least 0.65, and more preferably at least 0.7, and more preferably at least 0.75, and more preferably at least 0.8, and more preferably at least 0.85, and more preferably at least 0.9, and more preferably at least 0.95. [0053] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is configured with a relatively low emissivity to infrared radiation within the range of about 6-18 pm, such as an emissivity less than 0.5, and more preferably less than 0.4, and more preferably less than 0.3, and more preferably less than 0.2, and more preferably less than 0.1. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation reflective layer may comprise a highly reflective metal material, such as aluminum or silver (e.g., aluminum or silver foil, film or sheet/thin layer).

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, in some embodiments the infrared radiation reflective layer may comprise a plurality of infrared reflector discs 26 (i.e., an array of infrared reflector discs 26) that are coupled together via a flexible support material or layer 28. The infrared radiation reflective layer, as a whole, is relatively flexible/compliant such that the warming device 10 is sufficiently comfortable for use on/with a user. In some embodiments, the reflector discs 26 themselves are relatively flexible. In some other embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are rigid or stiff, and the flexible support material or layer 28 is coupled to the infrared reflector discs 26 and allows for movement between the reflector discs 26. For example, the flexible support material or layer 28 may comprise a polymer or fabric. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are embedded in the flexible support material or layer 28 such that the flexible support material or layer 28 extends about the infrared reflector discs 26. In some other embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are coupled to a side or surface of the flexible support material or layer 28.

[0055] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, in some embodiments the array or plurality of infrared reflector discs 26 may be arranged in two or more layers or rows spaced in the depth or thickness direction (e.g., arranged between the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 and the thermal insulation layer). Each layer of the infrared reflector discs 26 may comprise a plurality of infrared reflector discs 26 arranged such that there are spaces or gaps therebetween in a direction extending away from the user, as shown in FIGS. 2-4. In this way, at least the layer of infrared reflector discs 26 positioned closest to the user will allow at least some of the infrared radiation emitted by the user to pass therebetween/therethrough. The subsequent layer(s) of the infrared reflector discs 26 may be arranged and/or positioned to overlap with such gaps, at least partially, such that at least a portion of the infrared radiation emitted by the user that passes through an inner layer/level of infrared reflector discs 26 is incident on the subsequent layer(s) of the infrared reflector discs 26, as shown in FIGS. 2-4. The layers, rows or levels of infrared reflector discs 26 may or may not be separate and distinct layers, and may or may not be directly coupled to each other.

[0056] As also shown in FIGS. 2-4, the infrared reflector discs 26 of the infrared radiation reflective layer 22 are concave with respect to a top reflective side or surface 30 of the infrared reflector discs 26 that faces the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 and the user. In this way, the infrared reflector discs 26 are configured to reflect infrared radiation emitted by the user back toward the user and the infrared radiation absorption layer 20. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are arcuately concave with respect to the top reflective side or surface 30 thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are parabolic with respect to the top reflective side or surface 30 thereof. In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 26 are circular or elliptical concave with respect to the top reflective side or surface 30 thereof.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 2, the additional layer 24, shown in this example as a thermal insulation layer 24, may extend over the outer or back side of the other additional layer 22, shown in this example as an infrared radiation reflective layer 22, and may be configured to thermally insulate the top (or inner) side of the plurality of layers 16 of the warming device 10, and thereby thermally insulate the user. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer 24 may be configured to regulate (e.g. insulate against or resist) thermal flow via conduction and convention (and to some degree radiation). In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer 24 has a clo value (1 clo = 0.155 K m ² W ^-1 ) of at least 0.5 clo, and more preferably at least 1 clo, and more preferably at least 1.5 clo, and more preferably at least 2 clo, and more preferably at least 2.5 clo, and more preferably at least 3 clo, and more preferably at least 4 clo. The thermal insulation layer 24 may be flexible and maintain the heat/energy of the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (and the user’s emitted heat) between the user and the thermal insulation layer 24.

[0058] In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer 24 may be formed of a fabric, batting and/or fill layer. In some embodiments, the thermal insulation layer 24 may form the outermost surface 14 of the plurality of layers 16 and/or the warming device 10. However, in other embodiments, the warming device 10 may include one or more layers encompassing the thermal insulation layer 24 such that the one or more layers form the outermost surface 14 of the warming device 10.

[0059] The plurality of layers 16 of the warming device 10 may warm a user by absorbing energy emitted by the user and insulating the user from loss of the absorbed and emitted energy. When the warming device 10 is in use, e.g. when the user is positioned against or proximate to the innermost side 12 of the plurality of layers 16, a substantial portion (e.g., the majority) of the radiant energy emitted by the user over time (from portions of their body adjacent to the plurality of layers 16) is absorbed by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20, which thereby increases in temperature. It is noted that some of the radiant energy emitted by the user will be directly absorbed by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 as the energy initially reaches or meets the infrared radiation absorption layer 20, and some of the radiant energy emitted by the user will pass through the infrared radiation absorption layer 20. At least some (e.g., a substantial portion) of the radiant energy emitted by the user that passes through the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 is reflected back to the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 via the infrared radiation reflective layer 22 (namely, via the infrared reflector discs 26). At least some (e.g., a substantial portion) of the reflected radiant energy will be absorbed by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (and a portion may potentially be absorbed by the user). The infrared radiation reflective layer 22 may also be effective in reflecting radiant energy emitted by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 back to the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 and/or the user.

[0060] In this way, a substantial portion (e.g., at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90%) of the radiant energy (within the range of about 6-18 pm, for example) emitted by the user that travels to and/or is incident on the plurality of layers 16 is absorbed by the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (or the user), which thereby increases the temperature of the infrared radiation absorption layer 20. The thermal insulation layer 24 aids in preventing the thermal energy of the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (and the infrared radiation reflective layer 22 and the user) from conducting or convecting away from the user and/or infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (depending on the layering arrangement) in the depth direction. Over time, the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 (and the area adjacent or about the infrared radiation absorption layer 20) thereby absorbs more radiant energy and increases in temperature (to some maximum amount based on the properties thereof and/or the energy emitted by the user). The thermal energy of the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 may travel to the user to warm the user via a combination of thermal conduction, convection and radiation.

[0061] It is noted that the warming device 10 may comprise a non-warming or neutral zone that is void of the plurality of layers 16. The non-warming or neutral zone may not be configured to warm the user (at least to the extent of the plurality of layers 16). For example, the non-warming or neutral zone may tend to warm the user to some extent, such as due to the thermal insulative and/or absorptive nature of the material(s)/layer(s) of the non-warming or neutral zone, but at a substantially lower rate or amount than the plurality of layers 16. As another example, the non-warming or neutral zone may be configured to cool the user. As such, the plurality of layers 16 may only form a portion or particular zone of the warming device 10.

[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an infrared radiation reflective layer 122 that may be utilized in a plurality of layers of a warming device according to the present disclosure, such as with the infrared radiation absorption layer 20 and/or the thermal insulation layer 24 described above.

[0063] Some aspects, elements and/or functions of the exemplary infrared radiation reflective layer 122 are the same or substantially similar in structure and/or function, at least in part, to the exemplary infrared radiation reflective layer 22 described above and shown in FIGS. 2-4, and therefore the description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) equally applies to the infrared radiation reflective layer 122. Further, as the infrared radiation reflective layer 122 of FIG. 5 is substantially similar to the infrared radiation reflective layer 22 of FIGS. 2-4, the description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) equally applies to the infrared radiation reflective layer 122, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes. Still further, like reference numerals preceded with “1” are used in FIG. 5 to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions between the infrared radiation reflective layer 122 and the infrared radiation reflective layer 22.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5, the infrared radiation reflective layer 122 includes only a single layer, row or level of infrared reflector discs 126. The infrared reflector discs 126 may be arranged in a nested or offset pattern such that gaps or spaces therebetween are minimized. Other configurations of the infrared reflector discs 126 may be utilized to reduce, and potentially eliminate, the gaps or spaces therebetween in order to maximize reflection of infrared radiation by the reflector surface 130 of the infrared reflector discs 126 and to minimize passthrough of infrared radiation in the gaps.

[0065] In some embodiments, the infrared reflector discs 126 may be non-circular or nonelliptical shaped (not shown). For example, the reflector discs 126 may define a quadrilateral, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nanogonal, decagonal or any other rectilinear shape. In some such embodiments, the plurality of reflector discs 126 may form a honeycomb shape/arrangement. In some other embodiments, the reflector discs 126 may include rectilinear and arcuate portions/edges. In some embodiments, the reflector discs 126 may form irregular and/or differing shapes/profiles. In some embodiments, the reflector discs 126 may form a plurality of overlapping layers. [0066] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, at least some of the reflector discs 126 may abut each other (e.g., the reflector discs 126 of a particular row/layer). In some such embodiments, the reflector discs 126 may be directly movably coupled to each other or integral (e.g., via a living hinge).

[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a plurality of layers 216 of a warming device 210 according to the present disclosure. Some aspects, elements and/or functions of the exemplary warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216 may be the same or substantially similar in structure and/or function, at least in part, to the warming device 10 and the plurality of layers 16, respectively, described above and shown in FIGS. 1- 4, and therefore the description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) may equally apply to the exemplary warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes. Further, as the warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216 of FIG. 6 are substantially similar to the warming device 10 and the plurality of layers 16, respectively, of FIGS. 1-4, and/or may include the infrared radiation reflective layer 22 or the infrared radiation reflective layer 222, and therefore description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) equally applies to the warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216, and like reference numerals preceded with “2” are used in FIG. 6 to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, in some embodiments the warming device 210 and/or the plurality of layers 216 may include at least one top, underside or innermost layer or portion 242 that underlies the infrared radiation absorption layer 220. The innermost layer or portion 242 may thereby define the top or underside 212 of the plurality of layers 216 and/or the warming device 210. The innermost layer or portion 242 may be breathable and/or otherwise configured to provide comfort to the user. For example, the innermost layer or portion 242 may allow for convection and/or the flow of air and/or moisture. As another example, the innermost layer or portion 242 may be a moisture absorption layer. As a further example, the innermost layer or portion 242 may provide cushioning and/or a soft hand feel.

[0069] The innermost layer or portion 242 may or may not affect the radiation emitted by the user. For example, the innermost layer or portion 242 may be configured to absorb some of the thermal radiation emitted by the user. As another example, the innermost layer or portion 242 may allow a substantial amount (e.g., at least 75%, or 85%, or 95%) of the incident radiation (emitted by the user) to pass therethrough to the infrared radiation absorption layer 220 and/or the infrared radiation reflective layer 222, for example.

[0070] As also shown in FIG. 6, in some embodiments the warming device 210 and/or the plurality of layers 216 may include at least one bottom, topside or outermost layer or portion 240 that overlies the infrared radiation reflective layer 222, and the thermal insulation layer 224 if provided. The outermost layer or portion 240 may thereby define the bottom or topside 214 of the plurality of layers 216 and/or the warming device 210.

[0071] In some embodiments, the outermost layer or portion 240 may cover or protect the plurality of layers 216. For example, the outermost layer or portion 240 may provide a waterproof and/or fire resistant layers. As another example, the outermost layer or portion 240 may provide a cosmetic appearance to the exterior of the plurality of layers 216.

[0072] In some embodiments, the warming device 210 may be configured to physically support at least a portion of the user. In such embodiments, the outermost layer or portion 240 may provide cushioning and/or physical support to the inner plurality of layers 216. The outermost layer or portion 240 may physically position and support the plurality of layers 216. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers 216 may position the innermost surface [0073] In some embodiments, the outermost layer or portion 240 may comprise any material(s) or layer(s) that provides physical support to the inner plurality of layers 216. In some embodiments, the outermost layer or portion 240 may provide cushioning or padding consistent with the expected feel and use of the warming device 210 as at least a portion of a body support cushion, such as a mattress, seat, etc. For example, the outermost layer or portion 240 may comprise foam, batting, fabric, fill or any other relatively soft or compressible material. In some embodiments, the outermost layer or portion 240 may be formed of one or more materials and/or layers that is the same as or similar to that of at least one of the inner plurality of layers 216.

[0074] The outermost layer or portion 240 may or may not affect the radiation emitted by the user, and may or may not thermally insulate the inner plurality of layers 216 and the user. For example, the outermost layer or portion 240 may be configured to absorb some of the thermal radiation emitted by the user. As another example, the outermost layer or portion 240 may prevent a substantial amount (e.g., at least 75%, or 85%, or 95%) of heat to pass therethrough via conduction, convection and/or radiation, for example.

[0075] FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a plurality of layers 316 of a warming device 310 according to the present disclosure. Some aspects, elements and/or functions of the exemplary warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316 may be the same as or substantially similar in structure and/or function, at least in part, to the warming device 10, the plurality of layers 16, the infrared reflection layer 122, the warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216, and therefore the description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) may equally apply to the exemplary warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes. Further, as the warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316 of FIG. 7 is substantially similar to the warming device 10, the plurality of layers 16, the infrared reflection layer 122, the warming device 210 and the plurality of layers 216, like reference numerals preceded with “3” are used in FIG. 7 to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 7, the warming device 310 differs from the warming devices 10 and 210 in that the plurality of layers 316 include at least one thermoelectric generator (TEG) layer 350 configured to generate an electrical current when a temperature gradient across its thickness is present. The at least one TEG layer 350 may comprise any flexible, malleable and/or complaint thermoelectric generator configuration or form. For example, in some embodiments the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises a flexible solid-state device that converts heat flux directly into electrical energy via the Seebeck effect. In some such embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises at least one thermocouple comprising at least one p-type semiconductor and at least one n-type semiconductor, the semiconductors being connected electrically in series by electrical lines or strips. In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises at least one TEG module disclosed in Wearable Thermoelectric Power Generators Combined With Flexible Supercapacitor for Low-Power Human Diagnosis Devices by Fang Deng et al., IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics, Volume: 64, Issue: 2, Feb. 2017, which is hereby expressly incorporated herein in by reference in its entirety.

[0077] The at least one TEG layer 350 may be a solid-state semiconductor device that converts a temperature difference thereacross in the depth direction (i.e., extending away from the user and through the warming device 310) and heat flow into a DC power source. The at least one TEG layer 350 utilize the Seebeck effect to generate voltage. The generated voltage drives electrical current and produces power at a load.

[0078] The at least one TEG layer 350 may thereby include or form at least one thermocouple (e.g., a plurality of thermocouples) comprised of one p-type semiconductor and one n-type semiconductor that are connected by a metal strip that connects them electrically in series. The semiconductors are also typically referred to or are known as thermoelements, dice or pellets. In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 may utilize or include bismuth (Bi2Te3) telluride, lead telluride (PbTe) and/or silicon germanium (SiGe) as the semiconductors of the thermocouple(s) thereof.

[0079] The Seebeck effect is a direct energy conversion of heat into a voltage potential. The Seebeck effect occurs due to the movement of charge carriers within the semiconductors. In doped n-type semiconductors, charge carriers are electrons and in doped p-type semiconductors, charge carriers are holes. Charge carriers diffuse away from the hot side of the semiconductor. This diffusion leads to a buildup of charge carriers at one end. This buildup of charge creates a voltage potential that is directly proportional to the temperature difference across the semiconductor.

[0080] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises numerous thermocouples connected electrically in series and/or parallel to create a desired electrical current and voltage. The thermocouples are placed between two parallel insulative plates of the at least one TEG layer 350.

[0081] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises thermocouples formed of a thermoelectric (TE) plate, two polydimenthylsiloxane (PDMS) plates, two semiconductors, and aluminum oxide ceramic heads. The thermocouples have a heat spreader attached across one side thereof. The thermoelectric plate is sandwiched between two PDMS plates, which act as insulators and reduce the heat lost during the transfer of heat from the heat spreader to the TEG. The semiconductors include an n-type (negative) and a p- type (positive) to form a thermoelectric pair. The TE element may be sandwiched on the two remaining sides by aluminum oxide ceramic heads. [0082] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises a single chain configuration. In some other embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 comprises a double-chain configuration.

[0083] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 underlies the infrared radiation absorption layer 320, as shown in FIG. 7. The at least one TEG layer 350 may thereby be positioned between the user and the infrared radiation absorption layer 320. In some such embodiments, the plurality of layers 316 may include an inner layer 344 that underlies the at least one TEG layer 350. The inner layer 344 may space or separate the user and the at least one TEG layer 350, such as for comfortability purposes. For example, the inner layer 344 may be breathable, cushioning and/or include a soft hand feel to a significantly greater level than that of the at least one TEG layer 350 (if provided at all).

[0084] When positioned between the user and the infrared absorption layer 320 as shown in FIG. 7, the at least one TEG layer 350 may experience a heat increase thereacross. For example, as the user emits infrared radiation, at least some of the radiation may pass through the at least one TEG layer 350 and be directly absorbed by the infrared absorption layer 320 or may be reflected by the infrared reflective layer 322 and ultimately absorbed by the infrared absorption layer 320. As discussed above, over time the temperature of the infrared absorption layer 320 will thereby increase as it absorbs more and more infrared radiation.

Still further, the temperature of the user and/or the space between the user and the at least one TEG layer 350 may only nominally increase in temperature, and to a lesser ultimate temperature that is lower than the temperature of the infrared absorption layer 320. For example, the user’s body may regulate itself and emit less radiation, and/or the heat may conduct, convect or radiate away from the user and/or the space between the user and the at least one TEG layer 350. In this way, the side of the at least one TEG layer 350 will experience cooler temperatures on the side thereof facing the user than the side thereof facing the infrared absorption layer 320, and thereby generate a current/voltage/electrical power. [0085] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 may be electrically coupled to a resistive load such that an electrical current may be formed across the resistive load. In some such embodiments, the resistive load comprises an electrical energy storage element 360 as shown in FIG. 7. The electrical energy storage element 360 may be configured to store electrical energy such that the at least one TEG layer 350 acts to charge the electrical energy storage element 360. In one exemplary embodiment, the electrical energy storage element 360 comprises an electrical battery, as shown in FIG. 7. The electrical battery may be, according to one embodiment, rechargeable. In one example, the battery may be precharged prior to use of the warming device 310, and the battery may be rechargeable. In particular, the battery may be recharged using energy obtained from thermal radiation absorbed by the infrared absorption layer 320. In some other exemplary embodiments, the electrical energy storage element 360 comprises a supercapacitor. In some such embodiments, the supercapacitor is configured as a flexible layer.

[0086] The at least one TEG layer 350 and/or the electrical energy storage element 360 may thereby provide electrical DC power to any load. For example, the at least one TEG layer 350 and/or the electrical energy storage element 360 may provide electrical power to a device or mechanism associated with the warming device 310. For example, in some such embodiments the at least one TEG layer 350 and/or the electrical energy storage element 360 may provide electrical power to a mechanism or device associated with the warming device 310 that is configured to emit or provide heat to the user (via conduction, convection and/or radiation). As another example, in some embodiments the at least one TEG layer 350 and/or the electrical energy storage element 360 may provide electrical power to a mechanism or device that is not configured to emit or provide heat to the user to warm the user. As one illustrative example, the at least one TEG layer 350 and/or the electrical energy storage element 360 may provide electrical power to a biosensor.

[0087] In some embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 350 is configured such that when the warming device 310 is used, the TEG layer 350 (and/or the electrical energy storage element 360) is configured/effective to produce at least about 0.2 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.3 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.4 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.45 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.5 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.55 Amps per square meter, or more preferably at least 0.6 Amps per square meter, of the TEG layer 350 at the temperature drop thereacross formed via the user and the plurality of layers 316 as a whole.

[0088] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an active warming device 410 including a plurality of layers 416 according to the present disclosure. The warming device 410 and the plurality of layers 416 of FIG. 8 may be substantially similar to the warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316, and therefore the description above directed to like components, aspects, configurations, functions or processes (and the alternative embodiments thereof) may equally apply to the exemplary warming device 410 and the plurality of layers 416, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes. Further, as the warming device 410 and the plurality of layers 416 of FIG. 8 is substantially similar to the warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316 of FIG. 7, like reference numerals preceded with “4” are used in FIG. 8 to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 8, the warming device 410 and the plurality of layers 416 of FIG. 8 differ from the warming device 310 and the plurality of layers 316 of FIG. 7 in that the plurality of layers 416 include a flexible electric heating layer 452. The electric heating layer 452 includes flexible electric heating elements or wires 454, as shown in FIG. 8. The electric heating elements or wires 454 extend along the electric heating layer 452 in pattern thereacross. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the electric heating elements or wires 454 may extend in at least one layer in a serpentine pathway. The electric heating elements or wires 454 may be configured to generate heat, such as by the phenomena of joule heating. For example, as an electrical current passes through the heating elements or wires 454, the heating elements or wires 454 may be configured to generate heat due to the resistive nature of the design of the heating elements or wires 454. In some such embodiments, the heating elements or wires 454 may be composed of metallic alloys, ceramic materials and/or ceramic metals.

[0090] As also shown in FIG. 8, the electric heating elements or wires 454 of the electric heating layer 452 may be electrically coupled to the electrical energy storage element 460. In such an embodiment, the electrical energy storage element 460 can be utilized (selectively or constantly) to power the electric heating layer 452 and produce heat via the electric heating elements or wires 454 thereof to actively warm the user. In some other embodiments (not shown), the electric heating layer 452 may comprise the resistive load electrically coupled to the TEG layer 450 (and the electrical energy storage element 460 may or may not be present/included).

[0091] The electric heating layer 452 may be positioned between the at least one TEG layer 450 and the user, as shown in FIG. 8. However, in alternative embodiments, the at least one TEG layer 450 may be positioned between the electric heating layer 452 and the user. In some embodiments, the infrared absorption layer 420 and/or the infrared reflective layer 422 may be positioned between the user and the electric heating layer 452 (and/or the at least one TEG layer 450), as shown in FIG. 8. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the electric heating layer 452 (and/or the at least one TEG layer 450) may be positioned between the user and the infrared absorption layer 420 and/or the infrared reflective layer 422. [0092] As also shown in FIG. 8, the plurality of layers 416 may be void of the thermal insulative layer, or the electric heating layer 452 and/or the at least one TEG layer 450 may comprise the thermal insulative layer.

[0093] In some embodiments, the plurality of layers 416 of the active warming device 410 may include a flexible heat dissipation sink or cooling layer, device or structure 456 on the outermost side of the at least one TEG layer 450, as shown in FIG. 8. In such embodiments, the heat dissipation sink 456 may be configured to cool the outer side of the at least one TEG layer 450 by enhancing the dissipation of heat from the at least one TEG layer 450, such as by convection (and potentially conduction and radiation). In some embodiments, the heat dissipation sink 456 comprises a heat sink or heat spreader member. In one exemplary embodiment, the heat dissipation sink 456 comprises a metal material. In another exemplary embodiment, the heat dissipation sink 456 comprises a polymer-based flexible heat sink, such as a heat sink formed of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) (and potentially a fiber that promotes liquid evaporation).

[0094] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”), “contain” (and any form contain, such as “contains” and “containing”), and any other grammatical variant thereof, are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a method or article that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more steps or elements possesses those one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps or elements. Likewise, a step of a method or an element of an article that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

[0095] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” "has," “including,” "containing," and other grammatical variants thereof encompass the terms “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of ”

[0096] The phrase “consisting essentially of’ or grammatical variants thereof when used herein are to be taken as specifying the stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof but only if the additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed compositions or methods.

[0097] All publications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein as though fully set forth.

[0098] Subject matter incorporated by reference is not considered to be an alternative to any claim limitations, unless otherwise explicitly indicated.

[0099] Where one or more ranges are referred to throughout this specification, each range is intended to be a shorthand format for presenting information, where the range is understood to encompass each discrete point within the range as if the same were fully set forth herein.

[0100] While several aspects and embodiments of the present invention have been described and depicted herein, alternative aspects and embodiments may be affected by those skilled in the art to accomplish the same objectives. Accordingly, this disclosure and the appended claims are intended to cover all such further and alternative aspects and embodiments as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.